Large barriers have been installed in the city centre ahead of the Christmas market.

In line with similar initiatives all around the country, residents and visitors will be protected by additional security in advance of this year’s popular Bath Christmas Market and beyond.

This includes additional barriers being installed from this morning (Monday) by Bath and North East Somerset Council, Visit Bath, SouthGate Bath and Bath BID (Business Improvement District), who are all working in partnership to help things run smoothly.

The barriers, alongside new and replacement bollards, installed over the last month, are designed to restrict access for vehicles, and make it safer for pedestrians to get around the city centre.

Councillor Tim Warren (Conservative, Mendip), council leader, said: "These improvements are part of business as normal for the city.

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“I am grateful for the support of Visit Bath, Bath BID and SouthGate Bath, who are integral to providing a joined up approach to managing the city.”

The chief executive of Visit Bath, David James, said: ‘'As organisers of the Bath Christmas Market, Visit Bath works closely with partners to take all reasonable precautions to protect the safety and welfare of visitors attending the event.”

'Top priority is safety'

SouthGate Bath’s centre manager Guy Henderson said: “Our top priority is the safety of all visitors to the centre all the time.

“We are pleased to be working closely with partners to continue to do this.”

Barriers are being installed in Bath city centre today ahead of the start of the city's Christmas Market later this week (Image: Artur Lesniak)

Allison Herbert of Bath BID said: “We are delighted to be working with our partners at Visit Bath and B&NES Council to bring to the city a schedule of events and activities throughout the festive period that residents and visitors can enjoy.”

This year’s Bath Christmas Market opens on Thursday (November 23) and runs until Sunday, December 10.

An exclusive preview evening for residents is being held on Wednesday, November, 22 from 5-7pm.

Barriers are being installed in Bath city centre today ahead of the start of the city's Christmas Market later this week (Image: Artur Lesniak)

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